You may have seen commercials on TV in recent weeks asking viewers to support so-called "Jobs and Energy" legislation in the State of Michigan. The ads began running in early April and will run until the early part of June in the West Michigan TV market. Here is what one of the ads said:

"Should we pass a bi-partisan proposal now in Lansing that supports Michigan's 21st Century plan or pay billions of dollars more for our electricity over the next two decades? Lets pass an energy bill that creates nearly 16,000 new jobs, replace or update aging power plants, develop renewable resources and ensure affordable energy and stable electricity prices. It's time for change. Find out more at www.michiganjobsandenergy.org. Michigan's future depends on it."

According to the Michigan Campaign Finance Network, the group behind the ads, the Michigan Jobs and Energy Coalition, has spent $1.9 million dollars to date to influence public opinion on future energy sources. In the West Michigan market, we were able to find out how much money has been spent here by looking in the political files at two local TV stations. WOOD/WOTV is running a total of 54 spots and received $56,000 for running those ads, while WZZM 13 is running a total of 57 spots and has received payment of $16,480.

Like their TV ads, the Michigan Jobs and Energy Coalition's website tries to present themselves as looking out for the best interest of Michigan residents. In looking at the list of coalition members, the majority are businesses like DTE and Consumers energy, or business associations like the Michigan Chamber of Commerce and the National Association of Manufacturers. According to the Michigan Campaign Finance Network, "DTE Energy and Consumers Energy, the two most prominent members of the Jobs and Energy Coalition, have combined to give legislators and their PACs $366,000 so far this election cycle."

The Michigan House of Representatives has already passed legislation that would support the position of these energy companies and their supporters, HB 5524. Not surprising, the Democratic Party Speaker of the Michigan House of Representatives and the chair of the Energy and Technology caucus, Andy Dillon voted for this legislation. According to the Michigan Campaign Finance Network, Dillon has been the number one recipient of contributions from DTE and Consumers Energy, receiving a total of $16,000 in the past year alone.

The Senate is expected to vote on this legislation soon and it is important to note whom the top recipients of DTE and Consumers Energy contributions are. The top three recipients of money are all on the Senate Energy and Technology Committee - Mike Bishop (R), Randy Richardville (R), and Bruce Patterson (R). The top recipient was Republican Mike Bishop who received $11,200 and is the caucus leader for the Energy and Technology Committee.